AFMC Applauds Federal Government for Largest Ever Commitment to Health Research

OTTAWA, March 1, 2018 – The Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) is pleased with the federal government’s major commitment to health research in Budget 2018, which provides a new investment of $1.22 billion over five years to the Tri-Council, including $354.7 million for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and the new funds of $275 million over five years for interdisciplinary and international research, and of $21 million to increase diversity in science. AFMC is appreciative of the fact that the $763 million funding for the Canada Foundation for Innovation will ensure stability for scientific research infrastructure.

AFMC particularly commends the $231 million investment over five years for the Research Support Fund, which will support the indirect costs of research, as well as the $210 million funding over five years for the Canada Research Chairs program to help support early-career researchers.

“The federal government’s response to the Fundamental Science Review established by the Hon. Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science, will enable Canada to maintain a leading role in scientific research on a global scale,” states Dr. Michael Strong, Chair of the AFMC Board of Directors.

“We are thankful for the government’s focus on equity, diversity and inclusion, as well as for their particular focus on supporting early and mid-career researchers,” adds Dr. Geneviève Moineau, President and CEO of AFMC. She further states, “AFMC also wishes to thank our members, learners, and partners in health research, who have worked with us in support of this future vision for Canada.”

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